Armstrong: Robinson, Curry coming up big in the playoffs

Jack Armstrong4/29/2013 10:29:40 AM

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With some first round series' already in the books in the NBA playoffs, here are five quick thoughts for the week:

1. NATE ROBINSON (Bulls): This is a guy that has driven me crazy over the years with his inconsistent play, but wow he was utterly spectacular on Saturday in Game 4 against the Nets. Simply put, he put his team on his back and carried them. If you haven't seen the replays, check them out. That was a big-time performance.

2. STEPHEN CURRY (Warriors): I said the Warriors had no shot with David Lee going out; how wrong I was! They went small and the incredible skill level was on display last night in a brilliant third quarter from Curry. He has off-the-charts basketball IQ and craftiness. He's a shot-maker whose ball skills improve every game. With Klay Thompson, Jarrett Jack and Harrison Barnes spreading the floor, Curry is a difficult cover in open space.

3. CORY JOSEPH (Spurs): Environment effects: Joseph is in a good situation where he had to earn his minutes. The accountability is there and you see a guy developing into a nice young pro. So often guys go to bad teams and they go astray. But in San Antonio, rookies develop at a proper pace. Keep an eye on him the next few years, he's building himself a nice foundation.

4. DWIGHT HOWARD (Lakers): Howard got tossed in Game 4 and from what I saw, he bailed out. If I'm Los Angeles, I've got lots to think about with him as a free agent and if he's worth the drama. And if he is, is Mike D'Antoni the proper fit as his coach? It will be a fascinating off-season in Laker Land.

5. BRANDON JENNINGS and MONTA ELLIS (Bucks): Will we see either guy next year with this team? I'm not feeling it right now. I worry about the future of this franchise. Milwaukee is a good basketball town, and it's sad to see where they're at. If you're a Raptors fan, you can look at this situation and say the eighth seed in the East is open for business next season. I see big changes coming for this team.